Speech 2 - A Little Courtesy Goes A Long Way - Benita Charles Toastmasters

Summary

In this speech, the speaker discusses the importance of courtesy in everyday life, particularly in New York, which is often labeled as the rudest city in America. The speaker argues that New Yorkers are actually some of the nicest people and presents a solution: The Big Apple Courtesy Campaign. The campaign focuses on small acts of kindness in business, during commutes, and in personal interactions. The speaker shares personal experiences and emphasizes that even simple gestures like a smile or helping a tourist can make a significant difference. Ultimately, the goal is to improve New York's image and make the city a more welcoming place.

Takeaways

• 😀 New York is often perceived as rude, but this view doesn't account for its diversity and the large number of people from different backgrounds.
• 😀 A little courtesy can go a long way in improving the quality of interactions and experiences, whether in business, commuting, or everyday life.
• 😀 The 'Big Apple Courtesy Campaign' aims to change New York’s image by encouraging small acts of kindness, one at a time.
• 😀 In business, customer service with kindness can make a lasting impact, turning a simple transaction into a memorable experience that brings customers back.
• 😀 The way a business handles customer complaints and issues, especially in a busy city like New York, can greatly influence customer satisfaction and loyalty.
• 😀 On the subway, simple acts of courtesy, such as saying 'excuse me,' can prevent conflicts and contribute to a more pleasant commuting experience.
• 😀 Offering directions to tourists or helping them navigate the subway system can lead to meaningful connections and even international friendships.
• 😀 A smile and a greeting from a subway worker made a significant positive impact on the speaker’s day, showing how small gestures can influence people's moods.
• 😀 The speaker wrote a song inspired by the kindness of a subway worker, emphasizing the idea that sometimes a smile is all it takes to brighten someone's day.
• 😀 Encouraging courtesy in daily life—such as greeting others or offering help—can create a more positive environment and foster a sense of community in New York.
• 😀 The ultimate goal of the Big Apple Courtesy Campaign is to change New York’s reputation and prove that, despite its size, it’s a city full of kind-hearted people.

Q & A

What is the main theme of the speech?

The main theme of the speech is about the importance of courtesy and kindness, particularly in New York, to improve the city's image and foster better relationships between people.

How does the speaker challenge the perception of New York being rude?

The speaker challenges the perception by highlighting that New York is a large, diverse city with over 8 million people, where what might seem rude to one person could be normal to another. The speaker also points out that New York has many kind people, contrary to its stereotype.

What is the 'Big Apple Courtesy Campaign'?

The 'Big Apple Courtesy Campaign' is an initiative introduced by the speaker to change New York's image by encouraging acts of kindness in various areas like business, commuting, and daily interactions, with the goal of improving the city's reputation one kind act at a time.

How does courtesy in business relate to the campaign?

Courtesy in business is essential for customer satisfaction. The speaker suggests that if businesses incorporated the Big Apple Courtesy Campaign, customers would have better experiences, leading to positive reviews and a greater likelihood of return visits.

Can you describe an example of courtesy during the speaker's subway experience?

The speaker shares an experience where a man on the subway became hostile after being bumped into. Instead of escalating the situation, a simple 'excuse me' could have defused the conflict and prevented the altercation.

What role does courtesy play in commuter interactions?

Courtesy in commuter interactions, such as offering your seat to the elderly or helping others with directions, can create a more pleasant and cooperative atmosphere during stressful rush-hour commutes.

How did the speaker form an international friendship on the subway?

The speaker met a woman from Germany on the subway who asked for directions. After assisting her, they had a pleasant conversation and became Facebook friends, demonstrating how a small act of kindness can lead to lasting connections.

Why does the speaker emphasize the impact of a smile in everyday interactions?

The speaker emphasizes the importance of a smile as a simple yet powerful form of kindness. A smile can positively affect someone's day, as shown by the speaker's own experience with a subway worker who greeted them every day with a smile and a hello.

How does the speaker feel about the subway worker who greeted them?

The speaker feels a deep appreciation for the subway worker's consistent kindness. The speaker recalls how the worker's smile and greeting brightened their day and made a significant, positive impact on their life.

What is the message the speaker wants to convey about New York?

The speaker's message is that small acts of courtesy can transform New York into a friendlier and more welcoming city. By making simple, thoughtful changes in daily behavior, New Yorkers can improve the city's image and make it a better place for everyone.